The Widening Gap: An Analysis of Urban Development Trends in New First-Tier and Second-Tier Cities After 2015

This research analyzes the discernible upward trend in urban development observed during the study period, with particular emphasis on the emergence and rapid growth of new first-tier and second-tier cities in China. Notably, the period following 2015 witnessed a significant acceleration of this trend, resulting in a pronounced divergence between these two urban categories. This paper will delve into the factors contributing to this widening gap, exploring the economic, social, and policy-related drivers behind the observed urban development patterns.